Ohio is the latest state trying to gamble its way out of economic trouble.
But instead of improving the economic prospects for residents, Ohio lawmakers have instead opened the door for more problem gamblers. The increase in problem gamblers is expected to be especially acute in poorer cities like Cleveland, where a casino is opening in a former department store.
Providing easier access to casinos in poorer areas is expected to lead to more economic and social ills in areas that can least afford it. Studies show that the rates of crime, bankruptcy and divorce increase within a 50-mile radius of where casinos open. One study found that casinos in Ohio would increase the number of problem gamblers in the state by more than 100,000.
Lawmakers overlook these problems in their zeal to generate more tax revenue for state coffers. But it is troubling that lawmakers – who are sworn to protect citizens – would enact a policy that leaves residents poorer.
Sure, everyone loves to gamble . . . if they win. But, the person sitting next to you in church, the man in line at the grocery store, or one of your co-workers; any one of these could be involved with a gambling problem. Imagine your grandmother committing a crime to support her gambling addiction. I am a recovering alcoholic, gambler, and have recovered from other addictive behaviors. I published a book, Gripped by Gambling, where the readers can follow the destructive path of the compulsive gambler, a prison sentence, and then on to the recovery road.
I recently published a second book, Switching Addictions, describing additional issues that confront the recovering addict. If a person who has an addictive personality, doesn’t admit to at least two addictions, he’s not being honest. Until the underlying issues have been resolved, the person will continue to switch addictions. These are two books you might consider adding to your library. I also publish a free online newsletter, Women Helping Women, which has been on-line for more than twelve years and is read by hundreds of women (and men) from around the world. (www.femalegamblers.info). I have been interviewed many times, and appeared on the 60 Minutes show in January 2011, which was moderated by Leslie Stahl.
Sincerely,
Marilyn Lancelot